Our family from NWPA drove 14 1/2 hours to be with us for one week – and the first night –
we took them to Sunset Beach to the pier – to experience the famous Sunset Beach – sunset!
The air was warm as was the water at 80 degrees.
Many people come here to fish until midnight when the pier closes.
THE SUNSET at Sunset Beach, N.C. frfom the pier.
Thanks for reading Papa’s World – On Sunset Beach pier to see the sunset with family.
We both have strong beliefs – in God – Church – Family and together we can make dreams!
I have found throughout my life – to one step at a time – take care of the little things in life –
and that in turn will mostly take care of the bigger things in life – at least partially.
LIVE YOUR LIFE – and DREAM – big and small.
To me DREAMS become goals of life – GOALS ACHIEVED become life as you live it.
Bring as much GOOD into your life – you then become the person you yourself respect the most.
PAPA’S WORLD is about all the above.
LIVING LIFE ONE DAY AT A TIME – MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
Thanks for reading.
It seems like only yesterday they came and stayed often overnight sleepovers!
Our six grandkids all lived close to us before we moved to OIB, N.C.
They had their own SPOTS that they would claim to spend the night.
Ella had a single bed adjoining our Master Bedroom.
Maddy had her own bedroom – a single bed.
Sarah – Taylor – Cassidy and Bode all had their spots on our master bedroom floor!
I miss those times – foam mattresses – blankets and lots of pillows.
Giggles during the night.
Today Maddy is a junior in college – Sarah a Freshman in H.S. and Ella a Freshman in college.
Taylor and Cassidy are in the 5th. grade – 11 years old!
And now we have Bode – the only boy.
The sleepovers are gone – vacations are now here – bedrooms are gone – college soccer games are here.
Gone are the skateboard’s outside – bikes – easter egg hunts in the yard –
Today it is looking forward to visits here and visits back at their homes.
Thanks for reading Papa’s World
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My very first memory of school – sitting on my grandma’s lap on the front porch –
“Grandma – when can I go to school”? I asked.
We had just watched a neighborhood boy walk past on the other side of the road –
His name was Denny and I later found out he was two years older than me!
So – I am thinking I was about four years old and I can still see him in my mind and me asking her.
I attended this old school until the fourth grade!
It was at that time – we merged with Duke Center – Rixford and Eldred to form OTTO-ELDRED.
At this time a brand new elementary school had been built right across the street from the ballpark!
I would not have to walk a mile to school in the mornings!
But – I remember that old school and my teachers and the classrooms.
The very first class was in the front and face the main street and I had Mrs. Shields.
We started off spelling the normal way – sounding out the words –
but soon after – we switched to the new way – MEMORY!
That went on for a couple years but it left me and others I know – very poor spellers.
Across the main street and the railroad tracks – lays what we called THE FLATS!
And just beyond that the Alleghany River!
It seemed growing up part of life in the Spring were floods!
In 1954 or 1955 or thereabouts –
I was told not to go near the water flooded on the main street – I was maybe 6 years old.
But – I had made a raft and was sailing it on the main street – standing up and poling my way around
in about two feet of floodwater.
Unbeknown to me – a photographer from the local Bradford Era Newspaper – took my picture!
I was caught – standing on my homemade raft – poling my way around the main street –
ON THE FRONT PAGE OF THE BRADFORD ERA!
But – I also shared that front page later in life with my dad!
He made a bet on the heavyweight champion of the world fight and picked
FLOYD PATTERSON – the bet – the loser would wheelbarrow the winner down Mainstreet
To Slavin’s Bar – my dad won and made that same newspaper front page being pushed by HERKY!
A WWII bomber pilot who had been shot down and made it to the allies’ lines!
This sits right across from the ballpark and tennis courts –
I was the first class in there in the fifth grade – Miss Cawley!
Mr. Harrington was my sixth-grade teacher and Principle!
Many games of RED ROVER RED ROVER please send ???? over!
Was played right there on that circle drive in front of the doors.
Later in life – I walked my youngest son down to those front doors and inside to enroll him in Kindergarten – and standing in the lobby with all those parents he reached into his pants pocket and pulled out a bunch of dirt and worms!
He had stopped on our walk and without me knowing – stuffed his pocket with dirt and worms!
THAT I shall always remember!
We were bussed every day from the seventh grade on seven miles to school in Duke Center, Pa.
Three communities combined to have one single H.S. but each community had its own
grade schools and one township grade school.
We had to find our own way home after sports practices if we did not ride the bus.
My good buddy and I – later in H.S. road with his dad to school.
He would play up to date 45 records of music between classes all day long.
His favorite back then was PAUL REVERE AND THE RAIDERS – “GLAD ALL OVER”
and it was everywhere in the hallways – piped through the loudspeaker system!
I have always said someday I would like to go back and rewalk those halls to that blast of music!
It was across from here I watched a fight between two seniors – and I was one of a hundred people!
I still see it in my mind and they were about three years older than us.
Their names were Ron and Jim!
Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD – livinglifedoingitmyway.blog fitztdf@aol.com
When I was growing up – this was Fisbees Insurance and the Electric Company in the Cellar –
and right next to it was Slavin’s Furniture store and gas station.
I would roller skate down to the bays and Jack would sometimes buy me a glass coke out of the machine that stood there between the bays.
I do not remember his last name – but he was a really nice man and lived in Bullis Mills.
We also would come down here and ask for old cardboard boxes –
they all had a heavy layer of wax on them and were perfect for grass riding down the hill opposite of our front porch.
Today – both buildings are joined and form this fantastic museum – dedicated to WWII
and the munitions plant that made explosives for the war.
It has a full-size ARMY TANK that looks like it is busting right out the wall of the side of the building!
My stepfather – John Soules – who was decorated FIVE times with Purple Hearts and Bronze Stars
Once gave me a revolver he was given permission to bring back to the states
He had all the signed documents from the government –
Before he passed away – he asked for it back so he could donate it here!
A few years ago – I walked down and asked to see it once again.
They had it in a safe – and was told it was worth 30 to 40 thousand dollars!
He took that handheld automatic machine pistol off a NAZI OFFICER he had captured who was dressed as a civilian trying to escape.
I was told this pistol was not from WWII but from WWI and was very rare –
one of the first automatic machine guns ever manufactured by the Germans for WWI!
I got to once again hold it!
As you walk through you come upon room after room of scenes such as this.
This MUSEUM is like something you would find in Washinton DC. yet it is here in the very small town
of ELDRED PA. in the mountains of the ALLEGHANY FOREST in WPA!
I do not know the full story of why it is here – but I do know before the PANDEMIC
regular busloads of people would stop every day.
It sits on North Main Street right across from the old fire hall.
A must-see!
Memories of my life growing up in a small town in NWPA called ELDRED!
WHERE EVERYONE KNEW YOUR NAME – the ’50’s ’60’s and ’70’s.
MY SITE: PAPA’S WORLD
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MY CONTACT: fitztdf@aol.com
He was a very funny man and watched over me and my buddies!
State troopers were at his house at all times as he was friends with several of them.
He would let us know and made sure we were on our best behavior.
He had nicknames for everyone and he called my younger brother “JUICE”!
He broke both arms at different times and they were crooked – but could he play golf and hit that ball!
He was a 300-yard driver back in the ’70s!
He had a one-stroke handicap –
he knocked his front tooth out by twirling a dog leash until it came around his head
and smacked that tooth!
He was riding my bike – he was too small for it and his foot slipped and he had a rupture –
He played football and basketball and went onto college and kicked field goals.
He was always doing something!
It was part of my playground growing up – but I had to be extra careful –
always look both ways before crossing the main street!
I had neighborhood friends on both sides of that North Main Street.
There were a lot of kids when I was growing up there.
A lot of memories sitting on the lawn in front of the church –
a lot of KICK THE CAN game and HIDE and SEEK were done there!
We would walk some two miles to this place – they had the best soft ice cream!
We also would go and buy their burgers and fries!
Today – whenever I visit back home – we pass it and the memories after all those years come back!
The ELDRED TASTEE FREEZE – often think I should stop for old times!
Growing up – I rode my bike everywhere – to the park to play baseball or football – the tennis courts and the dances that were held there –
The Town Team men’s baseball team and my dad as manager.
The carnivals in the park –
The parades and celebrations – the crowds of people and sleeping out and roaming the streets.
ELDRED was a small town where everybody knew your name!
Thanks for reading – PAPA’S WORLD – my life as a young person – in a small town.
MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
MY CONTACT: fitztdf@aol.com
In the midst of the Alleghany hills – amongst the green and lush valleys – sits a little community-
Population – around 800 souls – and back then – I knew almost every one of them!
The town sits on the Alleghany river which eventually flowed into Pittsburg – but – it flowed North first!
Yes – it left Pa. and flowed into NYS before flowing once again South through Pa.
It ends up in Pittsburg some three-plus hours away.
I helped a friend of mine growing up with his paper route – his name was Brent – and we hung out.
He bought a go-cart with his money and he would let me ride on it.
He was two years older than I and eventually married my cousin.
Funny how that worked out – he graduated and I lost track of him.
I would ride my bike everywhere – I had to be home each night for dinner and before the street
lights came on. Every night at 10 o’clock sharp – the siren from the firehouse would blow-
You could hear it all over the town – that was “CURFEW” for the streets –
I think no one under 18 could be out and about!
Sharon and I were like brother and sister – we would watch Lassie together – play on the front porch –
sneak a corncob pipe and gather silk from the corn and smoke –
puff it – in the big red barn behind the house.
We would walk to school together – and our route always was behind the main street along the tracks.
Behind the Eldred Garage and then on the tracks themselves.
Just before the creek – Lynches lived and behind their house was a tree –
like a little island raised up on a piece of land.
We would sit there and play our Kazoo’s together –
“THREE BLIND MICE”
That was all I knew how to play! LOL
She moved away and my sister and her husband moved in right next door!
Over his shoulder is the greenhouse I grew up in – my bedroom was the two windows on the second floor –
after my older brother Roger left for college.
Every morning I would wake up to the birds singing in the tree outside that window –
the Sunlight would come streaming in –
There was the main street – highway right out front –
and I would sleep and hear the sound of cars – trucks rolling by –
and then – the accidents that happen right there –
crashes would hit the cars parked there.
Some – I sept right through – others – would jolt me right out of bed.
That curb was where my best friend and I were sitting one early morning after midnight –
he was sleeping over and my parents had gone somewhere –
we got into the hootch under the sink.
My sister came out and grilled us –
“ARE YOU GUYS DRUNK”?
No I said and right at that time a car came
and the lights showed right on my friend – and he got sick –
and threw up all over the place!
” HE IS,” I said! LOL,
my sister always laughed at that and would tell the story many times over and over!
We have reconnected about fifteen years ago at a class reunion –
he spent about a week here last October –
and we played golf once again – after some 55 years have gone by since we last played together!
He was my hero growing up – ten years older than I –
named WHOS WHO in American colleges
OFFICERS TRAINING SCHOOL and a Lt. in the navy.
His bedroom became mine – when he came back I would sleep on the floor.
This blog is dedicated to memories that I have of family – friends and our life in general!
Here you will find positive – friendly – and good thoughts – the World needs that!
If you look beyond this blog and into my site – you will find almost 800 blogs!
498 members – all over the USA and the World!
This is me – keeping a daily journal for future generations to look back on and see and read.
This is who we are – a TIGHT FAMILY!
We now reside in N.C. close to the border of S.C – about 30 minutes to North Myrtle Beach!
We moved from NVA where we all lived in the area.
Our family is very close and they stay in contact.
The two older granddaughters are in college and both start on their college soccer teams.
One is a Freshman in H.S. and aspires to dance and the arts.
The twins are close – one rides horses(bareback) and wants to go to Equestrian school –
The younger can make anything off of Youtube and is very artistic and also into gymnastics.
The only grandson – no socks – no shoes – no shirt – no problem – all boy –
soccer – baseball – sports – golf – all-around athlete.
Thanks for reading Papa’s World – TIGHT FAMILY –
MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
MY CONTACT: fitztdf@aol.com
This is part two – when we pause the TV – all of a sudden the screen saver becomes MEMORIES –
Pictures start rolling through of the past and we find ourselves just watching them!
Today they are grown up – two in college – one in H.S. “MEMORIES”!
Today – college for two – H.S. for the other – camping – hiking – sunrises – sunsets and campfires.
Time has passed – memories and now new memories.
So many memories – so many great times – so many thoughts – so much love – so much family!
Past memories – present memories in the making – PUSH PAUSE – and sit back and watch!
Thanks for reading Papa’s World – my blog: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog fitztdf@aol.com
I do this to chronicle life – our family lives for future generations to see and read
Whenever we push pause on the TV – in a second pictures start circulating – ones we have forgotten!
It seems somehow it is tied into the cloud – and MEMORIES start a procession across the screen!
At first, I just sat there and watched them roll by – then I grabbed my phone and started taking pictures.
You see – most of these have been deleted from my phone or are so far back it takes a long time –
to find them!
Since I am not a “TECHIE” so to speak – Sherry explained where they were coming from!
However, it happens – I am thrilled to see them all once again.
PUSH PAUSE and see the MEMORIES come forth.
I will continue in my next blog.
Thank you for reading Papa’s World – livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
The time has rushed by – youth to middle age to now autumn years – together as one.
Past memories – past family gatherings – looking to the present and future of family times to come.
We are here now in OIB – making new friends – members of a church – exploring the area –
doctors are here now – life is going on – making new memories – but never forgetting the past ones.
We have managed to be 6 to 8 hours away from the family – but we have room for all of them.
Beaches – golfing – hiking – entertainments – venues – shopping – we are excited to share all of that.
Thanks for reading Papa’s World: MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog MY CONTACT: fitztdf@aol.com
I have always been a history buff – ancient history – but also family history.
My sister and brother were fifteen and ten years older than me.
So when I came along I had missed the family fishing trips to Canada each year.
And my sister became the family photo taker and camera buff.
All the family history was passed down to my sister’s daughter and then suddenly she passed away.
Unknown to me – a friend of their family cleaned out everything and threw it away.
Everything was gone except the few pictures I had and my brother had.
I decided that what happened there would not happen for me and my family.
So – by being encouraged by my wife Sherry – we set up this blog – where all the family history and pictures can be in one place for all to see and read.
She has encouraged me to write it down along with pictures for future generations to look back on.
I have two sons from a previous marriage – Troy and Shawn who still live back in NWPA.
Shawn runs an energy company contracting out to the state and large power companies.
Running state audits and working through state grants to insulate senior citizens’ homes from the harsh winters.
He covers the entire western part of Pa.
Troy – built homes from the ground up – anything you wanted he could do.
After years of doing this ( he was in high demand) Shawn talked him into coming to work for him –
His business has grown to almost seven days a week.
Troy runs the insulation and energy side while Shawn concentrates on the Audit side.
Troy is learning that side and taking tests and courses to also step in and help.
I am very proud of both these boys and trying to talk them into taking a break and coming down for a visit.
Winterizing homes in Eastern USA for the elderly has become big business – conserving energy
on the power grid for major corporations in order to provide heat and electricity –
He has tapped into a business that for him is seven days a week.
He constantly is looking to hire people and train as auditors.
Troy started working for him a couple years ago.
If anyone is looking for a career out there – contact me – fitztdf@aol.com and I will put you in contact with him – he travels the whole western part of Pa. North to South.
For them I write – post pictures and give them memories that I still have in my head.
Ryan lives in Tenn. and we have stayed in touch with him – he manages a hotel
and recently opened a bar – restaurant business with two other partners.
We attended his wedding a few years ago in Nashville, Tenn.
He has visited us once a few years ago – he served his country
and is like his father(Shawn) making his own way in the business world.
He just spent four years in the service and is now out – living with his mother or in that area.
He reminds me so much of Shawn.
While we do not often get to see either one – both are in our memories and hearts.
Hoping they can come and stay with us in the future.
He is all boy – cars – trucks – bikes – and always without shoes and socks – even in winter! LOL
This is my “WHY” for writing this blog – my memories put forth in words and pictures for all these grandkids and our children to read in the future.
Life in pictures in words – memories – past – present and future to come.
I want to thank my wife who is the driving force behind this blog.
SMILES – LAUGHTER – PEACE – HARMONY and POSITIVE THOUGHTS!
That is WHAT PAPA’S WORLD is all about.
From that little one to an adult and a junior in college. Maddy was the first and now there are six.
TAYLOR – today – who is going to be taller than all the rest – no longer my LITTLE ONE!
We called her the nickname from her father – she always had a soccer ball or basketball in her hands.
Today – she is the starting midfielder for the college – playing almost every minute of the games.
Tiny now is taller than Sherry who is 5′ 9″.
Today she is the smaller of the twins – with the biggest heart – always protecting Bode when not arguing with him! LOL, They should have been the twins they are so much alike!
She is the one who counts the days down to when she can see us – who zoom calls every week.
A little fireball with the biggest heart of them all.
Today – Sarah is almost as tall as Ella who is 5’10” – the fashion girl who wants to go to NYC!
The twins adore her and whenever we get together – they are three peas in a pod.
She is only a Freshman in H.S. – already was a contender for prom queen.
She is her own self – funny – outgoing – and just might have been a very good soccer player like her sisters.
So much like Cassidy that they should have been the twins – yet – he is growing –
and someday I think will be taller than Taylor who he is built just like at seven years old.
Full of energy – always on the go – wear no socks or shoes most of the time.
Or a jacket or gloves!
Out of the six grandchildren – the only boy.
Here today at Christmas day for presents – memories from the past to the present.
Thanks for reading Papa’s World MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog fitztdf@aol.com
Always together – even this time home – overnight sleepover – all three in Sarah’s bedroom!
Although times have passed – they remain always near one another.
We spent two weeks in Va. with both families – celebrating the Christmas holiday.
I love this and to this day she still has that PIGGY!
Being named third-team all-conference as a Sophomore and second-team all-conference as a junior.
Family memories of past to present – during our stay for the Christmas holidays.
Thanks for reading Papa’s World – my blog: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog fitztdf@aol.com
Blessed to be able and healthy to spend time with family.
Full of energy – laughter and just hanging with them.
The years have gone by – they have grown up – yet the memories are still there as they are.
Thanks for reading Papa’s World – MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog fitztdf@aol.com
Holidays – celebrations – cookies – presents – hugs – laughs – CHRISTMA VACATION – Chevy Chase!
This the season – happy memories – trying to eat and drink healthy!
Seems like only yesterday they were small.
Now 15 – 21 – 18!
Thanks for reading Papa’s World – my blog: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog fitztdf@aol.com
Family is very important to us – both back in Pa. and Va.
Holidays with the grandkids.
Memories of many holidays years – laughing – “GRANDMA and MORMOR” ring out.
Shopping – walking – laughing – spending quality time together.
Baking and frosting Christmas cookies with the little ones.
Thanks for reading Papa’s World – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog fitztdf@aol.com
Memories of when they were small and today all grown up!
Two are in college – one is the first year of H.S. All we are hoping to have down with us at the beach.
They would come and spend days with us before we moved – now college and H.S.
Those times are memories of the past – today – and in the future – memories of beach days!
MEMORIES OF CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS – 2021 – PAPA’S WORLD – livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
The twins – came early – the doctor said it was a time a little past 32 weeks!
Taylor was the bigger – she was taking all the nutrients –
both were three pounds – Taylor 13 ozs. more!
So tiny – but healthy – and that was the birthday of their mother that they were born on!
Not planned – but by the doctor’s orders.
Bode came along four years later – today they are 11 and 7 years old!
Bode was the first boy out of six grandchildren – the girls MADDY ELLA SARAH TAYLOR CASSIDY.
Of course, the older ones all adore him and he adores them – esp. ELLA – whom he follows everywhere.
Thank you for reading PAPA’S WORLD my blog: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog fitztdf@aol.com
Life is full of memories – past experiences – vacations – get-togethers – sharing fun times!
We told them all that we would only be 6 or 7 hours away and we have done that!
And that we would come back often and we have done that also!
They have visited numerous times and Spring and Summer are ahead to make more MEMORIES!
Maddy – today a Junior at the University of Lynchburg.
Sarah – A freshman in H.S.
Ella – today a Freshman at Randolph College
Both are older girls who play college soccer.
MEMORIES of past and present!
MEMORIES of vacation times spent together.
Crossing the sound on a ferry boat!
Many a year we spent together as families – in the sun – water and sand!
MEMORIES of times in the past.
They are close with each other and with their mother Sherry –
All three ran the ten-mile Cherry Blossom race – crossing the finish line holding hands.
MOTHER AND DAUGHTERS BONDING – MEMORIES!
When a person comes into your life and you share 40 years together forming MEMORIES!
Today – we are by ourselves in N.C. while the families remain in Va.
Although distance separates us – memories – love and ZOOM – keep us all together!
MEMORIES of families in transit!
Thanks for reading my MEMORIES on PAPA’S WORLD – MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
She is the fashion queen amongst all the grandkids – and is almost as tall as Sherry!
The years have passed and she is growing up!
MEMORIES OF SARAH!
The oldest when she was little – the memory of then!
She is playing soccer for the Unversity of Lynchburg – and has played since she was a Freshman.
As a Sophomore, she was third-team all-conference and as a Junior – second-team all-conference!
So proud of this young lady who pursued a college soccer career.
They went to Division III NCAA 64 team playoffs where they lost in the last 2 minutes 3 to 2!
MEMORIES of when she was young!
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FAMILY MEMORIES TO CONTINUE NEXT BLOG!
MEMORY – the twins came early – not by choice but the doctor said it was time at just 32 plus weeks.
It was by chance that the day he chose also happened to be the mother’s birthday!
MEMORIES of THREE BIRTHDAYS!
The winery was for Tammy and family and friends – and we celebrated there for her.
Then – it was onto our home in Brambleton Va. to the patio for close friends and family.
Where we celebrated all three together with their presents.
The memory of family and close friends.
This was all back in 2012 – when they turned two.
Today – they are growing up so fast.
Ella is now the tallest – 5’10” and Maddy 5’6″ – Sarah is already taller than Maddy –
and soon Taylor at 11 years old will be taller than her!
MEMORIES of when they were all younger!
We celebrate every year – all three of them together – bonded for life that way!
Thank you for reading – PAPA’S WORLD – MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
MEMORIES are forever etched in my mind and blogs.
MEMORIES: Tammy and the twins – Taylor and Cassidy – all share the same day as a birthday!
Nother and daughters – bonded through life for a special occasion.
Great Country Farm is at the bottom of this mountain and we moved the party up to the top!
MEMORY of family and friends on our three-part celebration of life for all three of them!
The winery serves food and has music – and sits atop a mountain next to Mt. Weather –
The Government installation for doomsday.
Next to the winery sits a brewery called Dirtfarm.
Both are places that we like to revisit when we go home for visits!
Thank you for reading – MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog MEMORIES!
PAPA’S WORLD – MEMORIES of TAMMY’S BIRTHDAY WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY AND THE TWINS!
Some were big – some were small – others were barely walking and two were tall!
Oak Island – family times – family vacation.
MEMORIES as I recall – all in one location – joy for all!
The sweetness of youth – the bonding of cousins.
MEMORIES of the little ones and memories of the bigger ones!
MEMORIES of innocence – laughter – funny looks!
MEMORIES of crawling – then unsteady steps – walking and running!
MEMORIES of playing with the older cousins – timeless pictures – cuteness in diapers.
THANK YOU FOR READING PAPA’S WORLD – MEMORIES OF FAMILY VACATION – OAK ISLAND, N.C.
MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog MY CONTACT: fitztdf@aol.com
Taylor , Cassidy & big cousin Sarah !
Every once in a while – the three of them get together and then the magic happens. They seem to find everything and anything to dress up.
Be it as it may – I never cease to be amazed how well they get along. Hours and hours they will play. Never a argument – always laughing and they adore Sarah!
I wonder how it will be in a couple weeks when the new brother for the twins comes along. “MAXPANDA” they call him already. Already they walk around with little baby dolls , dressing “HIM” up , and when they come to “MORMOR’S” house, out comes all the old dolls of Debby & Tammy’s , along with all the outfits she made for them.
I can see it in the future – Taylor , Cassidy & Sarah all standing by the little brother known as “MAXPANDA” , looking down before they are off to DRESS UP once again.
A few years from now , it will be the three and BIG COUSIN Sarah – playing at PAPA & MORMOR’S – another adventure
in our lives to soon begin.
Can’t wait to see the outfits then – and my memory of them now will last for as long as I live. THE FROG , THE PRINCES AND THE BIG COUSIN – WAITING FOR “MAXPANDA” !!!!!!!!!
She was always smiling – laughing – having large dinners for all the family.
He was a master carpenter – so many pieces of furniture he made!
She was a devout Lutheran – involved in many aspects of the church.
He was an entrepreneur – always working – always looking for ways to make money.
She was meticulous in her home – always cleaning – always keeping the home in tip-top shape.
He was always doing the landscaping – tree trimming and mowing and building.
MEMORIES of Barb and Bill.
Celebrating GIGI ( Barb) birthday – the last time we would have Bill with us.
MEMORIES of family times together.
I would pick her up from the babysitter and she and I would sing OLD MCDONALD HAD A FARM!
MEMORIES of the family.
MEMORIES of times gone by.
Thank you for reading. MY SITE: PAPA’S WORLD MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
Life is aging and so are these grandchildren, the oldest is ( 2 ) in college and Bode is seven!
As they get older – it becomes harder to gather everyone in one location.
And now – we are six to seven hours away.
But – pictures such as this bring back a flood of memories.
MEMORIES of the grandchildren.
If I could turn back time as Cher sings!
But – in all my blogs – I have pictures of them all – for when I am gone – these will remain –
for future generations to come.
MEMORIES in pictures and words.
MEMORIES OF FAMILY – MEMORIES OF TIMES AND PLACES – MEMORIES FOR THOSE TO COME!
MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
MY CONTACT: fitztdf@aol.com
Our three oldest granddaughters and their parents – who lived North of Winchester, Va.
All the soccer games for the older two – who now are in college and playing soccer.
All the dance recitals and dance performances for Sarah –
All the Christmas Eve and mornings – all three awake and waiting – sitting at the top of the stairs.
All the hiking – running 5K’s with Sherry – mother and granddaughters!
Memories of family bonding – memories of family tears and memories of family joys!
MEMORIES FROM THE PAST!
Mother and both daughters run – as do some of the granddaughters.
MEMORIES of mother and her daughters crossing the finish line after 10 miles in Washington DC.
MEMORIES of them holding hands as they crossed that line – staying with their mother for ten miles!
MEMORIES of running for hope for Saint Jude’s Children Hospital. TRAINING – for half marathon.
MEMORIES FROM THE PAST!
MEMORIES – daughters following mother into health and nutrition
MEMORIES of working to help children eat healthily
MEMORIES of growing your own produce
MEMORIES of health and science and research
MEMORIES FROM THE PAST and STILL IN THE PRESENT
MY SITE: PAPAS WORLD MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
MY CONTACT: fitztdf@aol.com
For the past sixteen years – she has promoted health – nutrition – speaking before groups
of health-conscious people!
Memories – a daily commitment to health and nutrition.
She has taken courses and has a certification in being a CERTIFIED HEALTH COACH –
From Doctors William Sears and Pam Popper.
Dr. Sears has written over thirty books on childhood pediartics.
The memory of bonding with mother and daughters!
The years have passed – but the road remains straight – promoting health for loved ones –
and the incorporation of children – at early ages to adapt habits of healthy eating!
MEMORIES continuing to this day!
SHERRY CONTACT: ssherrylynn49@aol.com
SHERRY’S SITE: http://www.sf.juiceplus.com
NOTE: CHILDREN between ages 4 and 19 – FREE with sponsoring adult.
CHILDREN between ages 19 to 23 – in COLLEGE – FREE with sponsoring adult.
Thank you for reading Papa’s World.
MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
MY CONTACT: fitztdf@aol.com
MEMORIES OF THE PAST SIXTEEN-PLUS YEARS!
Family is very important to us – both near and far away.
Over the past 40years – YES – we have been together that long – many friends have come and gone.
But the family has been a constant joy in our lives!
They moved to NVA after we moved there! My sons stayed in Pa. and we talk and see them.
Now – we are in N.C. by ourselves – close friends live 35 miles from us.
We are making new friends – new neighbors – and our old friends have been visiting us!
As well as family.
MEMORIES are heartfelt.
Thank you for reading – MEMORIES of each and every one of them come to mind –
Pictures speak to me of memories.
MY SITE: PAPA’S WORLD
MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
MY CONTACT: fitztdf@aol.com
We had a really large indoor mall called the DULLES TOWN CENTER!
And we would take the little ones shopping and always they would want to ride the Carousel.
Sherry would go on with them while I stayed with the packages.
This was always what they looked forward to – even before they could pronounce Carousel!
MEMORY of gone by days.
We have friends who live just South of Wilmington – in Leland N.C. – Magnolia Greens.
We would visit them twice a year and they would come North and visit us.
The waterfront on the Cape Fear River in historic old Wilmington N.C.
A favorite place of ours when we visited.
The battleship in the background – memories of times we spent here!
Two little girls – who could not reach these – pick me up PAPA!
MORMOR – help me!
Four little hands and feet.
Blond hair and blue eyes.
Memories of sweetness.
Thank you for reading – PAPA’S WORLD
MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
MY CONTACT INFO: fitztdf@aol.com
Rog was ten years older than me – my sister Donna was fifteen years older.
Toward his last years of life – we would spend six weeks with him – end of January to mid-March.
We were retired then as he was by himself – his wife had passed away.
He lived in The Villages and really wanted us to move in with him.
But – we could not just leave all the grandchildren.
Those last five years were memories I shall cherish – golfing – riding the golf cart trails –
Happy hours with him – just hanging out.
Before we moved and ten years’ worth of bonding – we were there for them as they grew up.
Fraternal twins – Taylor will be exceptionally tall – like Sherry her MORMOR –
Swedish for MOTHERSMOTHER!
Cassidy is normal for her age group.
She is the one who ZOOMS her MORMOR weekly or calls her.
She knows what days we will be home and how long.
Taylor is our budding horse rider – and has been for four years!
Cherished memories are always with us.
They both are runners as is Debby! They have all run the Washington DC. Cherry Blossom
ten milers! Finishing crossing the line hand in hand – all three of them!
Memories of mother and daughters bonding!
Thanks for reading – more blogs and old memories to come!
MY SITE: PAPA’S WORLD MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
MY CONTACT: fitztdf@aol.com
In this picture – my friends of the last 36 years for Buck and 40 plus hears for Jimmy!
Jimmy and I worked together and played softball together in the mid to late ’70’s!
In the back ground across the pond on this hole in Magnolia Greens –
sits Buck and Cindy’s new home they built a couple years ago!
I really like this area and would of moved here if we could of found something
like this and in our price range.
Friends and golfing buddies – MEMORIES!
Dottie – Jimmy’s wife and Cindy – Bucks wife – all these years still getting together!
We all moved away from our home town areas.
Yet – at least twice a year we manage to get together –
here we are at Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach!
Speak no evil – see on evil and hear no evil!
In the last 16 months – sometimes we struggled to balance social distancing –
and that was very true with family.
Sitting in our garage while the three little ones sat on a tarp in the lawn at the end of the driveway.
Or visiting them standing outside and little Bode hiding behind his parents peaking out at us!
That broke my heart.
But – we have come a long ways on this – we did stay with family after we sold our house
at the end of June last year!
Family is important and we have been tested twice and so have they!
PAPA – can I sit on your lap!
This is at 5:45 am. – while I am writing my blog!
He knows I wake up early and down he comes- when we are not here – he sleeps in!
Last week he asked me on a kids message –
he had called me – “PAPA – WHEN WILL WE SEE YOU AGAIN”?
I tear up when he talks to me like that!
Here we are having lunch after they drove 6 hours – at Crooked Hammock at Barefoot Landing!
They spent all weekend and until Friday of the following week with us!
This made us very happy as they got to see where we are and where we are building our house.
They now know it is but a six hour drive for them to visit!
Thank you for reading Papa’s World-
My blog on memories will continue with my next blog.
MY SITE: PAPA’S WORLD
MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
MY EMAIL: fitztdf@aol.com
SHERRY: CERTIFIED HEALTH COACH / Dr. William Sears author over 40 children books.
SHERRY HOME BUSINESS: http://www.sf.juiceplus.com title: SSC JUICE PLUS
SHERRY CONTACT: ssherrylynn49@aol,com
PAPA’S WORLD WHERE FRIENDS MEET FAMILY FAMILY MEETS FRIENDS livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
I knew both before I met Sherry – Freddie and I went to 7th. grade thru 12th. grade.
We met at a place that was half way to where they live in Florida and to where we were staying!
Great time with old friends. MEMORIES!
We traveled before the Pandemic – meeting friends along the way.
And – – we were careful – as were some more friends we met.
Bobby and I go back to grade school – friends for life.
Sports – a few drinks – camping out – running the streets – never anything destructive – just boy hood memories.
By the time this blog posts – Pam and Bob will stop in on there way back to New England.
They have a drive RV towing a car.
We are all safe – testing and vaccinations.( except Sherry who is allergic to the vaccine)
It will be good to once again relive memories – Freddie – Bobbie and I had growing up!
Fourteen years we attended services there.
John and Nancy moved to Charleston about a year before we moved.
On our way back from Florida – just before the Pandemic – we stopped in and stayed – regaling in memories.
They gave us a walking tour of Charleston’s waterfront and historic district.
A few months after we moved to Myrtle Beach area – we met halfway in Georgetown S.C.
And – about a month or so ago – they visited us at the condo.
Friends – MEMORIES!
Thank you for reading Papa’s World
I will continue MEMORIES of the PAST SIXTEEN MONTHS in the following blog.
WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY
FAMILY MEETS FRIENDS!
MY SITE: PAPA’S WORLD
MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
MY EMAIL: fitztdf@aol.com
SHERRY: CERTIFIED HEALTH COACH: SSC THE JUICE PLUS COMPANY
SHERRY’S WEB SITE: http://www.sf.juiceplus.com contact email: ssherrylynn49@aol.com
BUSINESS: RETIRED
present : network marketing from home – 15 years – living life promoting HEALTH and NUTRITION
We were on our way back to the air BNB – looking for a place to stop and eat and we found this little gem.
I can not remember the name but it had the flag of the British hanging outside.
It – was very cool and the food was good.
After we returned home in March – the Pandemic hit.
A few months later – we met our friends in the open air seated more than six feet apart.
Ordered lunch from one of the places to eat for pick up.
And in the middle of the common area ice skating rink – enjoyed ourselves.
Old friends – who live in Az. visited us for a week and we showed them NVA and Washington DC.
When we had gone out there for a conference – after it was over – they picked us up and we went to Sedona.
We also went back to their home and they showed us around Tucson.
It was a great week filled with a lot of historical sites!
I will continue the MEMORIES in the next blog of the past 16 months!
SHERRY SARAH ELLA and PAPA!
Memory I shall cherish for the rest of my life during the Pandemic of 2020.
WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY
FAMILY MEETS FRIENDS!
MY SITE: PAPA’S WORLD
MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
MY EMAIL: fitztdf@aol.com
SHERRY’S SITE: http://www.sf.juiceplus.com SSC for The Juice Plus Company
CERTIFIED HEALTH COACH
CONTACT EMAIL: ssherrylynn49@aol.com
These three are anything but this!
They love playing games – competitive games!
They play sports – the two oldest – soccer – and one is in college playing
and the second – next fall will do the same.
The youngest is into dance – loves the arts – and wants to go to NYC!
All three love their Grandma – laughing with her and at her!
We took Sarah and Ella for a week to the beach last summer –
We took Maddy to swim with the Manatee’s for her 16th. birthday
We took Ella to Disney Star wars for her 16th. birthday
And now when Sarah reaches 16 – she wants to go to NYC and Broadway!
I will sit that one out – her mother can take my place!
Maddy has made the leap to college – now in her Sophomore year
as a Freshman she played in 13 games at the University of Lynchburg – Va.
And has maintained a GPA – over a 3.85!
She just played this past weekend – having one assist –
one barely missed assist and one barely missed shot on goal.
They won 2 to 0!
Ella will finish her H.S. soccer this Spring –
She had two colleges to pick from and choose Randolpf College in Lynchburg Va.
Just across town from her sister and they will compete against one another!
Sarah is all about fashion – no interest in soccer at all!
Although when little – she played as well as her older sisters!
She loves to dance in competitions when younger and shows.
Her goal is one day to create fashions and design – produce movies – acting!
All three are like this – beautiful on the inside – smiling on the outside – living life to the good.
Thank you for reading Papa’s World
WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY
FAMILY MEETS FRIENDS!
MY SITE: PAPA’S WORLD MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
SHERRY CERTIFIED HEALTH COACH
SENIOR SALES COORDINATOR : JUICE PLUS COMPANY
SHERRY’S SITE: http://www.sf.juiceplus.com NETWORK MARKETING BUSINESS – No Inventory!
click on site for more info – free to look around and send email for questions!
They still live back in NWPA – where I Sherry and I grew up.
Troy – was a builder – from the ground up – Shawn runs his own energy – audit company
and Trisha his wife runs the office,
Troy has since joined Shawn and runs the crews.
They range in the state of Pa.
state programs for the elderly.
Troy when young with his cousin.
Shawn and Trisha – wedding – my little son has grown up!
While they remain some 700 miles away
they are still in my heart and memories.
They are both this way – kind – caring and both willing to help anyone.
I have two grand sons – Ryan and Dylan. Both from Shawn.
Being so far away – we do not see them as often as I would like.
But – when we do travel North – we do meet up.
Thank you for reading Papa’s World
WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY
FAMILY MEETS FRIENDS
My site: PAPA’S WORLD My blog: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog Business: http://www.sf.juiceplus.com
We awoke to a beautiful sunrise – a bit chiily –
But the forecast called for low 50’s but Sunny!
It makes a big difference with hardly any wind!
I have come to accept here in S.C. – that the day changes dramatically
the higher the Sun gets in the sky!
So – you prepare for the day – getting a mental image in your mind
dress in layers – drink your coffee or tea
and know that the day – will turn out okay!
So it goes – sunrise – sunshine – cool but no wind – warmth.
A fine day to be alive and a fine day to golf with friends!
Thank you for reading Papa’s World
WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY
FAMILY MEETS FRIENDS
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From the very moment they pulled in – he asked that question –
PAPA – CAN WE GO ON YOUR HIKE?
To him – a hike is like back home – rocks – hills forest – streams!
I tried to explain to him it is different here –
But PAPA – That is not a hike – we have to go to the mountains!
He is a leader – and always out in front!
This is him to a tee – always staying ahead of the game – his own mind.
We walked a good mile and one half through the woods –
although he was out in front of me or alongside of me –
he never sought to run off –
staying close to me!
We spent the better part of a hour walking the marsh and the woods
I want to come back here in the Summer so we can see more wild life!
Thank you for reading Papa’s World
The day we went on our hike –
Bode now understands a hike can be different
WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY
FAMILY MEETS FRIENDS!
At the end of the hike – snacks and a swing – life is good and feeling blessed!
Come back to PAPA’S WORLD! livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
There are times that we walk early – before 7 AM.
It is a quiet time to walk –
a time to just take it take in!
Life comes at you and never stops!
You and me are just along for the ride.
We can make the most of it
and when we get off
our legacy can continue to the next generations
hoping we made a lasting impression
in that all to be short ride!
How many have stood here before you?
How many have viewed the view?
Walking – thinking – talking together!
Early morning to clear out the mind –
A time to reflect – to plan.
A time to see what lies ahead
knowing that this will be here tomorrow
and the day after that many – many times!
Yes – walking early – hearing the sound of the surf –
the warm feeling of the Sun on your back or face.
A walk on the beach – a walk through time – a time to reflect
Walking – listening – solitude – but being together – sharing moments and thoughts -for it is here that ideas are formed – problems solved.
AN EARLY MORNING WALK ON THE BEACH!
Thank you for reading Papa’s World
WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY
FAMILY MEETS FRIENDS!
MY BLOG SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
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